PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. — The Low-Income Housing Institute (LIHI) has officially announced the acquisition of a Tacoma motel, aiming to transform the facility into over 100 units of essential permanent supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, thereby addressing a critical need in the community.
The LIHI said on Monday that it has successfully purchased the 128-room Oasis Inn, once referred to as the Clarion Inn, located at 6802 Tacoma Mall Boulevard. After the renovation of the hotel is complete, the facility will feature a total of 117 units designed for “non-congregate emergency shelter and permanent supportive housing,” with a significant portion—at least 51 units—dedicated to offering crucial medical respite services.
The motel acquisition was funded through various financial sources, including significant investments from Pierce County Human Services and the Washington State Department of Commerce. The LIHI revealed that the state contributed $21 million, which encompasses both the acquisition and the renovation costs of the property. Additionally, Pierce County Human Services awarded LIHI $10 million in 2023 to facilitate a new shelter project, which ultimately redirected funds toward the purchase of the Oasis Inn.
“The shelter beds will be for people experiencing homelessness, fleeing from domestic violence, or who require services to prevent homelessness and are at the greatest risk of housing instability,” according to a detailed press release issued by Pierce County regarding this acquisition.
Pierce County emphasized that the medical respite services offered at the motel will be prioritized for homeless individuals in need of medical attention. Furthermore, this facility will become an integral part of Washington’s Apple Health and Homes Program, a strategic initiative aimed at aligning healthcare services with housing resources to better serve vulnerable populations.
“Pierce County Human Services is pleased to have been an initial investor in this latest project to bring additional short-term shelter and permanent supportive housing to Pierce County,” stated Heather Moss, the director of Pierce County Human Services. She added, “The facility will also provide short-term medical respite for homeless individuals coming out of treatment or other healthcare facilities. While the need still greatly outpaces available resources, this new shelter will be a welcome addition to the array of homeless services available across our county.”
Just over 2,660 homeless individuals were documented in Pierce County during the Point-In-Time count conducted in January 2024, according to the LIHI, marking a concerning 23% increase from the previous year.
The new shelter will have 24/7 staffing and will provide case management, security, and medical services onsite, ensuring comprehensive support for residents. This thoughtful approach aims to facilitate a smoother transition for individuals seeking stability in their lives.
Community Health Care will deliver much-needed health, dental, and behavioral health services to those who require assistance, further enhancing the support available to residents.
Pierce County indicated that LIHI anticipates a phased approach to the project, with some clients expected to begin moving into the facility during the renovation process, ensuring prompt access to housing for those in need.
**Interview with Sharon Lee, Executive Director of the Low-Income Housing Institute (LIHI)**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Sharon. Can you explain the significance of LIHI’s recent acquisition of the Oasis Inn in Tacoma?
**Sharon Lee:** Thank you for having me. This acquisition is a major step forward in tackling homelessness in Pierce County. By transforming the Oasis Inn into a facility that will offer over 100 units of permanent supportive housing, we are addressing a critical need for stable housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. This initiative will provide not only shelter but also crucial medical respite services to those who need them.
**Editor:** What specific features will the renovated facility have, and how do you plan to support the residents?
**Sharon Lee:** The renovated facility will have a total of 117 units, designed to accommodate those in need of non-congregate emergency shelter alongside permanent supportive housing. Of these, at least 51 units will specifically offer medical respite services for homeless individuals requiring medical care after treatment. We believe that integrating housing with healthcare services is vital for helping individuals regain stability in their lives.
**Editor:** How will this project be funded, and what role has the community played in supporting this initiative?
**Sharon Lee:** The funding for this project has been made possible through a combination of investments from Pierce County Human Services and the Washington State Department of Commerce. The state contributed $21 million for both acquisition and renovation, while Pierce County provided $10 million to facilitate this project. This collaborative effort demonstrates the community’s commitment to finding sustainable solutions to homelessness.
**Editor:** Pierce County has highlighted that this facility will cater to various vulnerable populations. Can you elaborate on who will benefit from these services?
**Sharon Lee:** Absolutely. The facility will prioritize individuals experiencing homelessness, those fleeing from domestic violence, and those at high risk of housing instability. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where residents not only have a roof over their heads but also receive the support services they need to transition into permanent housing.
**Editor:** Lastly, what message do you have for the Tacoma community regarding this initiative?
**Sharon Lee:** I want to emphasize that housing is a fundamental human right. This initiative is a community effort, and we’re excited about the partnership with Pierce County and other stakeholders. We encourage everyone to support this project, as it not only helps individuals in need but strengthens the entire community. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on homelessness in Pierce County. Thank you for your time and support!
**Editor:** Thank you, Sharon, for sharing this important information with us. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have on the community.